T-72 tanks to get more powerful engine soon

The Ministry of Defence has signed a $248 million (around Rs 2,100 crore) contract with Rosoboronexport (RoE) of the Russian Federation for the procurement of more powerful engines for the Indian Army’s T-72 tanks. These engines will be supplied in fully assembled, completely knocked down and semi-knocked down conditions from Russia.

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The new engine generates 1,000 HP, compared to the existing 780 HP engine currently used in the T-72 tanks, which remain a mainstay of the Indian Army. “Equipping the existing fleet of T-72 tanks with 1,000 HP engines will enhance the battlefield mobility and offensive capability of the Indian Army,” the Ministry of Defence said.

The deal also includes a Transfer of Technology (ToT) agreement between Rosoboronexport and the Ministry of Defence-owned Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (Heavy Vehicle Factory) in Avadi, Chennai. This will enable integration and subsequent licensed production of the engines, strengthening the “Make in India” initiative in the defence sector.